Introduction
The SKS, a legendary rifle renowned for its ruggedness and historical significance, often leaves something to be desired when it comes to its trigger. The factory trigger, while functional, can sometimes be gritty, heavy, and inconsistent. This can negatively impact accuracy and overall shooting enjoyment. Welcome to the fourth installment of our *OP SKS Gunsmith* series, where we delve into the art of enhancing your SKS rifle. Today, we’re focused on a crucial aspect of any firearm: the trigger. This guide will walk you through the steps of refining your SKS trigger, transforming it into a smoother and more reliable mechanism. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a newcomer to gunsmithing, this guide aims to provide you with the knowledge and practical steps necessary to achieve a vastly improved trigger pull. We’ll explore techniques that help alleviate grittiness, reduce pull weight, and create a more consistent trigger break.
This project will involve some basic gunsmithing skills and requires a methodical approach. It’s a great project for those looking to improve the overall shooting experience of their SKS rifle. You will need some specific tools to complete the task, which we’ll detail in the following sections. Get ready to transform your SKS’s trigger from a functional component to a precision-enhancing feature!
Safety First
Before embarking on any gunsmithing project, especially those involving firearms, safety is paramount. Remember, firearms are inherently dangerous, and improper handling can lead to severe injury or even death.
The first and most crucial step is always ensuring the rifle is unloaded and safe.
Verify the Chamber is Empty
Open the bolt and visually inspect the chamber to confirm there is no cartridge present. Then, run your finger along the chamber to ensure it is clear.
Inspect the Magazine
Ensure the magazine is empty. If your SKS has a detachable magazine, remove it.
Dry Fire
Point the muzzle in a safe direction, and pull the trigger to verify the firing pin falls and the hammer is released.
Safe Direction
Always point the muzzle of the rifle in a safe direction throughout the entire process, ideally towards a solid backstop in an area where any accidental discharge will not cause harm.
Safe Work Area
Ensure you have a clear and organized workspace, free from distractions.
Safety Equipment
Always wear safety glasses or protective eyewear to shield your eyes from any debris or projectiles.
Ear Protection
Loud noises can damage your hearing. Wear earplugs or earmuffs.
A well-lit, clean workspace is essential. Avoid cluttered areas. Have all the necessary tools and materials within easy reach.
Disassembly for the Trigger Group
While the specific steps may vary depending on the model and modifications, we will focus on general guidance to get you started. Before we dive into the trigger work, you will need to remove the trigger group. This often requires some disassembly of the rifle.
First, ensure the rifle is unloaded and safe, as previously described.
Begin by removing the stock. This typically involves removing the stock bolt or screws located at the receiver’s rear, just behind the receiver cover. You might need to take out the buttplate screws as well, if they are not on the same assembly. Be careful not to strip the screw threads.
Once the stock is off, you’ll have access to the trigger group. The SKS trigger group is a self-contained unit usually held in place by a cross pin or trigger group pin or two. Depending on your specific model, the trigger group pin may be inserted from either side. Using a punch of appropriate diameter (a pin punch set is recommended), gently tap the pin out, supporting the opposite side to prevent it from bending. Do not hammer too hard, you want to avoid damage to the receiver or the trigger group.
The trigger group can now be removed from the receiver. Take your time, and pay attention to how the parts fit together. Many beginners make the mistake of losing track of all the little pieces. Be sure to organize all the parts in a way that you can easily remember the order in which they came from.
The Gunsmithing Process: Refining the Trigger
With the trigger group removed and safely secured, we can begin working on the trigger itself. The goal is to smooth the action, reduce any grittiness, and lighten the pull weight, if desired. Remember that any modification to the internal parts of your SKS trigger carries a risk, and if you are not comfortable with this work, it may be best to take your SKS to a professional gunsmith.
Inspection and Cleaning
Before beginning any modification, carefully inspect all the trigger group components for wear, damage, or any signs of rust. Clean all parts thoroughly using a suitable gun cleaner and solvent. Pay particular attention to the trigger sear, hammer, and any friction surfaces. Removing any debris, grease, or oil. Consider using an ultrasonic cleaner for more effective cleaning.
Polishing the Friction Points
The key to a smooth trigger pull is reducing friction between the moving parts. Identify the key friction points within the trigger group. This typically includes the following:
- Trigger Sear: The part that engages the hammer.
- Hammer Sear: The part that engages the trigger and holds the hammer in place.
- Hammer Pivot: The area where the hammer rotates.
- Trigger Pivot: The area where the trigger rotates.
Use a small amount of polishing compound (such as Flitz or a similar metal polish) on a felt bob or cotton swab. Carefully polish the friction surfaces, taking care not to remove too much material. Work slowly and methodically.
Trigger Modification (Optional)
For reducing the trigger pull weight, you have a couple of options. *Disclaimer: Reducing the weight of your trigger may increase the risk of accidental discharges. Always test carefully after completing any modifications. If you are not comfortable with any part of this process, take your SKS to a professional gunsmith.*
- Spring Replacement: A lighter trigger spring will result in a lighter pull. You can replace your original trigger return spring with one that offers less resistance. Be sure to test the firearm carefully after performing this modification.
- Sear Engagement Reduction (Advanced): This requires a more detailed understanding of the trigger mechanism. You can sometimes improve the trigger by carefully and sparingly polishing or stoning the trigger sear and hammer sear engagement surfaces. *Caution*: This modification requires advanced skills, knowledge of firearm mechanisms, and an understanding of how the sear and hammer interact. Polishing or stoning the wrong surfaces can render the trigger unsafe.
Reassembly and Lubrication
Once you’re satisfied with the polishing and any modifications, reassemble the trigger group. Apply a small amount of high-quality gun lubricant to all the moving parts, focusing on the friction points you polished. Use a lightweight, non-gumming lubricant.
Test and Re-Installation
Carefully test the trigger group for smooth function. Cycle the action and ensure the hammer reliably falls when the trigger is pulled. Verify that the hammer is securely held by the sear. If you’ve lightened the trigger pull, ensure the trigger resets reliably.
Reinstall the trigger group into the receiver.
Reassembly into the Rifle
After you’ve worked on the trigger, the next step involves reassembling the trigger group into the receiver and then putting everything back together.
Start by carefully aligning the trigger group and inserting the trigger group pin, making sure it’s properly seated. Ensure that the trigger is still functioning correctly.
Reinstall the stock, ensuring all screws or bolts are tightened properly.
Testing and Verification
With the rifle reassembled, it’s time to test your work.
Function Test
Perform a function check to ensure that the hammer falls reliably and the trigger resets. Cycle the bolt and dry-fire the rifle several times.
Trigger Pull Weight
Measure the trigger pull weight with a trigger pull gauge. Compare the result to the original trigger pull weight and confirm that the desired adjustments have been made.
Accuracy
To determine the extent to which these changes affect accuracy, conduct a shooting test at the range.
Safety Check
Thoroughly check your work. Ensuring that all parts are correctly installed and that the firearm is safe to use is absolutely critical.
If you experience issues during this process, consult online resources. It is possible to damage your trigger group during this process, so seek the help of a professional if you feel uncomfortable working on this part.
Conclusion
Refining your SKS trigger can dramatically improve your shooting experience. By following these steps, you can transform a somewhat sluggish trigger into a smooth and predictable mechanism. Remember to prioritize safety throughout the entire process, and if you’re uncomfortable with any step, consider seeking the help of a qualified gunsmith. The benefits are well worth the effort!
Enjoy your enhanced SKS, and stay tuned for the next installment in our *OP SKS Gunsmith* series!
Resources and Links
This section will feature links to related SKS gunsmithing parts, tutorials, and further research. This could include:
- Links to trigger kits or spring replacements.
- Links to other gunsmithing articles in the series.
- Links to related forum discussions and resources.
- Links to gunsmithing tool retailers.
This article provides a complete, in-depth look at refining the trigger on your SKS. Remember that patience, precision, and respect for safety are key to success. Happy gunsmithing!
